"Verstappen affirms Red Bull future unaffected by Horner departure"

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Max Verstappen Unaffected by Christian Horner’s Exit from Red Bull

Max Verstappen has stated that Christian Horner’s dismissal as team principal will not influence his decision to stay with Red Bull.

The reigning champion also confirmed that the sudden decision after the British Grand Prix was orchestrated by Red Bull GmbH, the team’s parent company, following a prolonged power struggle with Horner.

This was the first time Verstappen publicly addressed the issue since Horner’s departure two weeks ago. Horner, who had led Red Bull since 2005, faced increasing pressure after the death of co-founder Dietrich Mateschitz in 2022. He had also been involved in controversy after an employee accused him of misconduct, though an investigation cleared him of wrongdoing.

Speaking ahead of the Belgian Grand Prix, Verstappen revealed he was informed of Horner’s exit just half a day in advance. “The past 18 months haven’t gone as we hoped, and management chose to take the team in a new direction,” he said.

“The decision was made by management and shareholders. They own the team, and as the driver, I respect their authority to make these choices.”

Verstappen’s father, Jos, had been a vocal advocate for Horner’s removal, but the Dutch driver, who secured all four of his championships under Horner’s leadership, insisted their relationship remained intact. “My bond with Christian hasn’t changed,” he said. “Of course, he’s not here now, but this team still feels like family.”

Retaining Verstappen may have been a factor in Horner’s dismissal, with rumors suggesting the champion had already engaged in discussions with Mercedes. Red Bull’s performance struggles over the past 18 months had left Verstappen frustrated, even admitting he was out of title contention this year. However, he denied this would affect his future plans.

“No, not at all,” he said. “I don’t think it will impact any decision I make. The last year and a half haven’t been where we want to be, but we’re working to improve.”

Horner has been replaced by Laurent Mekies, previously team principal of sister squad Racing Bulls, who will make his first media appearance on Friday.

Lewis Hamilton, who entered Formula One two years after Horner took charge of Red Bull, praised his legacy.

“The team’s progress has been incredible,” he said. “I remember meeting Christian in 2005, sitting in his office when I was in Formula Three, looking to move into GP2. It wasn’t an instant connection, but watching his career and what he achieved with the team was remarkable. Running an organization that large and successful takes real skill.”